It has been nearly six years since The Drew Barker-Wright Charity was founded. During that time, this local organisation has funded £135,000 of research into rare childhood cancer. 

The charity currently supports a paediatric chordoma initiative in America, which is pushing the boundaries of research. The aim - to find kinder, targeted treatments developed specifically for children. 

The charity aims to raise awareness of childhood cancer and its signs and symptoms. Childhood cancer is currently the number one medical cause of death of children in the UK.  

1 in approximately 500 children up to the age of 15 will be diagnosed annually. That’s approximately 4000 children each year in the UK. Awareness is key and early diagnosis can save lives.

The charity runs a private Facebook group for parents of children with chordoma. 

 The page allows mums and dads from across the globe to connect, providing emotional support, the ability to share medical data and to know that there is a network they can reach out to when they are in need.

 The charity has also put in place a grant application to provide some financial assistance to families of newly diagnosed children in the UK. This is to help through the initial shockwave of diagnosis and help with the cost incurred during hospital stays.

This year marks the completion of Drew’s Gift with Drew, Moo and Bunny, Too. A bedside gift for young children in treatment in the UK. 

Melanie, Drew’s mum, who helped set up the charity said: “On a more personal level our family was invited to take part in an international online conference for Roche Pharmaceuticals. 

 “The aim of the event was to liaise with health professionals to help them improve their approach to implementing treatment plans for families dealing with the devastating journey of childhood cancer.

“None of the above would be possible without the support of our followers and fundraisers, and we are continually humbled and full of gratitude. 

“We hope you will consider buying a ticket for our September Prize Draw, purchase Drew, Moo and Bunny, Too as a gift for a little loved one, or join us on September 23rd at Drew’s Concert, for what will be a unique evening of entertainment, suitable for all ages. 

 “We hope that Drew’s Concert, our September Prize Draw and Drew Moo and Bunny Too, will continue to help raise funds and continues to raise awareness and support UK families affected.”